Nevis Criminal Assizes to Convene at the Albertha Payne Community Centre

This public notice, issued by the Registry of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (St. Christopher and Nevis) (Nevis Circuit), announces the commencement of the Criminal Assizes for the Nevis Circuit. The Assizes, representing a crucial session of the High Court of Justice, are scheduled to begin on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at the Albertha Payne Community Centre in Bath Village, Nevis. This notice serves as a formal summons for all individuals involved in proceedings before the court, including jurors, witnesses, and sureties, to attend at the specified date and time.

The legal basis for this notice is Section 87(4) of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (Saint Christopher and Nevis) Act, Cap. 3.11 of the Revised Edition of 2002 of the Laws of Saint Christopher and Nevis. This legislation empowers the court to establish the dates and times for its sittings, ensuring the proper administration of justice within the jurisdiction. The Criminal Assizes deal with serious criminal offenses, and the notice underscores the importance of all relevant parties adhering to the established schedule.

The choice of the Albertha Payne Community Centre in Bath Village, Nevis, as the venue signifies its suitability for accommodating the proceedings. This location provides the necessary space and facilities for conducting the Assizes and ensuring accessibility for all participants. The notice emphasizes the significance of punctuality and adherence to the designated schedule for the smooth and efficient operation of the court.

Jurors, forming an integral part of the judicial process, are summoned to attend. Their role is to impartially evaluate the evidence presented and deliver verdicts based on the facts and the law. Witnesses, possessing firsthand knowledge relevant to the cases, are also called upon to provide their testimony. Their presence is crucial for ensuring a fair and just outcome. Sureties, individuals who guarantee the appearance of accused persons in court, are equally obligated to be present to fulfill their legal responsibilities.

The phrase “govern yourselves accordingly” in the notice reinforces the seriousness of the proceedings and the expectation of adherence to all court protocols. It underscores the importance of respecting the legal process and complying with all directives issued by the court. This includes maintaining decorum, providing truthful testimony, and fulfilling any other obligations related to the cases being heard.

In essence, this public notice serves as a formal announcement and summons to all individuals with business before the High Court of Justice (Nevis Circuit) Criminal Assizes. It outlines the specific date, time, and location of the proceedings, emphasizing the legal basis for the notice and the importance of compliance by all involved parties, including jurors, witnesses, and sureties. The notice underscores the solemnity of the occasion and the expectation of respectful conduct and adherence to all court procedures.